Marplan

Indicated For

Major Depressive Disorder

About This Medication

# Validus Pharmaceuticals Patient Assistance Program Guide: How to Get Marplan (isocarboxazid) at Low or No Cost Marplan (isocarboxazid) is a prescription medication used to treat depression, particularly when other treatments have not worked. Validus Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer, offers a **patient assistance program** (contact: 1-866-982-5438) for uninsured or underinsured patients, alongside a **co-pay card** for commercially insured patients to reduce costs to as low as $20 per month.[1][2] ## About Marplan (isocarboxazid) **Marplan** is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), an older class of antidepressant reserved for treatment-resistant depression. It works by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine to improve mood, energy, and interest in daily activities. It's typically prescribed after other antidepressants fail, with a starting dose around 30 mg/day (three 10 mg tablets), up to 40-60 mg/day in divided doses.[1][7] Available only as **10 mg oral tablets**, Marplan has no generic version in the US, leading to high cash prices of $577–$700 per month. It's not a first-line treatment due to dietary restrictions (avoid tyramine-rich foods like aged cheese, cured meats, or certain wines to prevent dangerous blood pressure spikes) and drug interactions (e.g., no SSRIs, stimulants, or decongestants). Always follow your doctor's instructions and full prescribing information at www.marplan.com.[1][2][6][7] Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, and insomnia. Serious risks involve hypertensive crises from food/drug interactions, so education is key. Marplan is for adults with major depressive disorder confirmed by symptoms like persistent low mood, loss of interest, appetite/weight changes, sleep issues, or fatigue lasting at least two weeks.[7] ## Who Qualifies for Assistance? Validus Pharmaceuticals provides support through two main options: 1. **Co-Pay Card** (for commercially insured patients): Pay as low as **$20** out-of-pocket, with up to $100 off (30-day supply), $150 off (60-day), or $200 off (90-day). Excludes Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, or government insurance.[1][2] 2. **Patient Assistance Program** (for uninsured/underinsured): Details like income limits not publicly available—**call 1-866-982-5438** for eligibility. Aimed at those unable to afford the medication.[2] **Insurance Requirements**: Co-pay card requires commercial insurance; patient assistance targets **uninsured or underinsured patients**. Medicare patients cannot use the co-pay card but may qualify for assistance or alternatives like Prescription Hope ($70/month).[2] ## Income Eligibility Breakdown Specific income thresholds for Validus Patient Assistance are **not publicly detailed**. Contact 1-866-982-5438 for personalized info, as criteria may align with federal poverty levels (FPL) but are not specified online.[2] | Household Size | Estimated Threshold (e.g., 400-500% FPL, common for PAPs)* | Notes | |---------------|-----------------------------------------------------------|-------| | Individual | ~$60,000–$75,000/year | Call to confirm | | Couple | ~$80,000–$100,000/year | Varies by program | | Family of 3 | ~$95,000–$120,000/year | Not detailed publicly | | Family of 4 | ~$110,000–$140,000/year | Eligibility call required | *Estimates based on typical PAPs; actuals unavailable. Always verify by phone.[2] ## Step-by-Step Application Process ### For Co-Pay Card (Easiest for Commercial Insurance): 1. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for the **Marplan Co-Pay Card** (available at marplan.com/professionals/co-pay.php).[1] 2. Present it at the pharmacy with your **valid Marplan prescription**. 3. Pharmacist submits claim: Primary insurance first (if applicable), then Change Healthcare as secondary with code (e.g., 8 for third-party, 1 for cash). You pay first $20; card covers up to max amount.[1] 4. Receive reimbursement via pharmacy.[1] ### For Patient Assistance Program (Uninsured/Underinsured): 1. **Call 1-866-982-5438** to speak with Validus support. Provide your info, prescription details, and insurance status.[2] 2. Complete any application form they send (details not online; likely includes proof of income, residency, prescription). 3. Submit required documents (see FAQ for likely items). 4. Await approval—processing time not specified; follow up by phone.[2] No online application URL available; phone is primary method.[2] ## Timeline and Delivery - **Co-Pay Card**: Instant at pharmacy—no approval wait.[1] - **Patient Assistance**: Processing time unknown; call for updates. Medication likely shipped directly or picked up via pharmacy. Delivery method not detailed—confirm during application.[2] Refills: Co-pay card valid per fill; assistance may require reauthorization (call to check).[1][2] ## Alternatives if Denied or Ineligible - **Discount Programs**: GoodRx, Optum Perks, or Super.com for cash-pay savings (up to 80% off).[3][5][6] - **Prescription Hope**: $70/month for qualifying patients, including Medicare.[2] - **Therapeutic Alternatives**: Discuss generic tranylcypromine (Parnate) or other MAOIs/SSRIs with your doctor. No biosimilars for Marplan.[2] - **NeedyMeds/RxAssist**: Search databases for more options.[2] - **Medicare**: Check plans (often Tier 4, high cost); contact 1-800-MEDICARE.[3] ## Important Disclaimer This guide is for informational purposes only and not medical or financial advice. Eligibility, terms, and availability can change—**always contact Validus at 1-866-982-5438** or your healthcare provider for current details. Programs may have restrictions; confirm before applying. Marplan has serious risks—use only under doctor supervision. Word count: 942.

Program information last verified: March 30, 2026